AIKIDO TRAINING

The Basics

The keynote of training is the learning and repeated practice of basic techniques.  These techniques are very rational ways of overcoming strong attacks.  They stress the use of the whole body as a single, co-coordinated unit to attack an opponent’s weak points.

 

Multiple Attackers

The basic body movements of Aikido make it possible to evade simultaneous attacks by more than one attacker at a time.

Weapons

The basic movements derive in part from the use of Japanese sword, spear and similar weapons.  Practice with these weapons takes the form of individual exercises and paired forms.  The movements are extremely interesting, develop speed, stability and coordination, and highlight many of the principles of unarmed training.

Weapons in Aikido

Aikido training includes the use of the Japanese sword (‘ken’) and a staff known as a ‘jo’.  The Aiki system is a union of unarmed training and staff and sword practice.  The three interrelate and complement one another in a way which is eternally fascinating.  All students are encouraged to begin weapons training as soon a possible.

 

 

 

BENEFITS OF TRAINING

Self Defense

Aikido is a very good system of self-defense. Holds, locks, throws and blows are used to subdue assailants approaching in any way imaginable.  There is also a higher level of training which builds sensitivity to danger, which should make it possible to avoid threatening situations before any need to engage in physical confrontation actually arises.  Aikido fundamentally seeks to resolve conflict without violence, to reconcile rather than conquer. Its true meaning can only be found by training.

Fitness

Aikido is an excellent system of exercise.  All the muscles of the body as well as the cardiovascular system are well worked in training.  The body becomes more supple and agile, as you become more aware of how to apply efficient physical principles. Improved posture and sense of balance are the inevitable result of regular practice.  These abilities are acquired via correct training. Emphasis is given to the gradual evolution of correct body habits. There is absolutely no need to have a high level of physical fitness to begin.

Confidence

Aikido naturally helps to develop a positive mental attitude.  Practice develops both mind and body in such a way that training becomes a whole way of life.

Spirituality

Aikido can be a profoundly spiritual system, the meaning of which becomes apparent through the training.  With regular Aikido practice and advancement the application of ‘ki’ begins to develop.  Ki comes from within and can be described as  the outflow of inner energy through the Aikido technique.  A branch of Aikido is devoted to the application of Ki.

Aikido can also be described as moving meditation, and has applications in the non violent resolution of conflict.

 

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